LASR.net Homepage




Menu

Topeka, Kansas

This historic Union Pacific depot has been restored to its 1927 grandeur as The Great Overland Station. Located along the Oregon trail, the Station tells the story of Topeka and its railroad heritage. The All Veterans Memorial, Corridor of Fifty Flags, and BNSF Railway Plaza is a signature landmark for Topeka.

Designed by renowned architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood, the beautiful Union Pacific passenger station was reported to be "one of the finest passenger stations on the line" when it opened January 27, 1927. With its 34-foot ceiling and ornate glazed terra cotta ornamentation, the elegant building is perhaps the finest representation of classic railroad architecture in Kansas.

The station was built on a site already rich in history. Here, the Pappan brothers ferried Oregon Trail pioneers across the Kaw River, while Indian Chief Burnett traded supplies and horses with the sojourners. Slaves seeking their freedom crossed here on their way north along the "underground railroad." Future Vice President Charles Curtis, grandson of Louis Pappan, was born on a corner of the property. George Armstrong Custer, Buffalo Bill and Wild Bill Hickok were frequent visitors to the bustling frontier community on the north bank of the river. The area from the river front through the North Topeka business district contains historic buildings, largely original and intact. The early history of our community survives in North Topeka, waiting to be brought to life.

The last passenger train left the station May 2, 1971. The building was later remodeled for railroad offices, abandoned in 1988, and damaged by fire in 1992. At that point, Railroad Heritage, Inc. secured a lease from the Union Pacific Railroad to prevent the building's demolition. A Use and Feasibility Study indicated that a museum celebrating railroad heritage was the most desirable use for the station. The Great Overland Station Project Team was established to direct efforts to preserve the station and transform it into a railroad heritage museum. In June 2004, The Great Overland Station opened its doors again as a community landmark.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Kansas National Guard Museum

The Kansas National Guard Museum is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Kansas National Guard and honoring the memories of the soldiers and airmen who, for over 145 years, have served Kansas and the United States whenever the call was made.

Topeka, KS Museums

Lake Shawnee Recreational Area

Lake Shawnee is a man-made, 411-acre lake offering fishing, boating, sailing and swimming. Within the 1,600-acre park surrounding the lake are foot trails, fish hatcheries (for stocking the lake), a golf course, a marina, tennis courts, shelter houses, horseback trails, ball diamonds, and gardens.

Topeka, KS Recreation

Potwin Place

Looking for a scenic drive? View beautiful Victorian homes of the late 1800s situated along brick streets where islands of greenery circle each intersection point in the National Historic District known as Potwin Place. Each Christmas, special decorations can be viewed.

Topeka, KS Tours

Gage Park

Gage Park is one of the biggest attractions in Topeka. Within the park itself, the biggest attraction is the Topeka Zoo, which allows visitors to come face to face with gorillas in a special Gorilla Encounter exhibit. Other features at the zoo include a bush camp with a lion'

Topeka, KS Recreation

The Great Overland Station

This historic Union Pacific depot has been restored to its 1927

Topeka, KS Railroad History

Things to do near Topeka, KS

Topeka Country Club

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...

Lamont Hill Resort

Course Access: ResortHoles: 9Reserve Advance Tee Times: 3 days...

Camp Chippewa

Camp Chippewa is a church camp and retreat center with cabins and kitchenettes. Participate in horseback riding, canoeing, sw...